The National Seismic Monitoring Centre (NSMC) has released a detailed classification of Pakistan’s earthquake-prone regions, dividing the country into three distinct risk zones. The categorization is based on proximity to active fault lines, vulnerability to tsunamis, and the frequency of tremors felt in different regions.
According to the report, more than a dozen Pakistani cities lie directly on, or dangerously close to, active fault lines. This high-risk group includes Islamabad, Rawalpindi, Peshawar, and Abbottabad—urban centers where seismic experts warn the impact of a strong earthquake could be devastating. These regions are particularly vulnerable due to their geographical position atop the collision boundary of the Indian and Eurasian tectonic plates.
The second category highlights tsunami-prone areas, especially along the Arabian Sea coast. Cities like Karachi, Gwadar, and Ormara fall under this classification. Their location near undersea fault lines raises the risk of seismic-triggered tsunamis, which could lead to large-scale flooding and damage to coastal infrastructure.
The third category consists of regions where tremors are commonly felt but are farther from major fault lines. Central Punjab, for instance, experiences mild seismic activity and is considered comparatively safer. However, experts stress that “lower risk” does not mean “no risk,” as even distant quakes can cause structural damage depending on magnitude and depth.
Seismologists emphasize that public awareness, earthquake-resistant infrastructure, and early warning systems are critical for minimizing casualties and damage. Dr. Umar Asif, Samaa’s correspondent in Islamabad, noted that understanding how fault lines are monitored and mapped is key to effective disaster preparedness. He also pointed out that many at-risk areas lack proper building codes and safety compliance, leaving residents vulnerable.
Pakistan’s location along one of the world’s most seismically active belts means that risk is ever-present. Experts urge policymakers to prioritize seismic risk assessments in urban planning, enforce construction regulations, and invest in modern monitoring technologies to enhance readiness before the next major quake strikes.
